Modular Degree Study
The University operates a modular degree system by which degrees are obtained via a process of credit accumulation. This process is compatible with that used elsewhere in Scotland (ScotCATS) as well as in Europe (ECTS).
The modular degree system at the University greatly adds to the flexibility of undergraduate study. The module requirements remain the same whether you choose to study on a full-time or part-time basis.
Modules are self-contained units of teaching, learning and assessment which usually run for one semester. Modules are worth a fixed amount of credit, so if you pass the module you gain the appropriate number of credits which then count towards your degree.
Full-time students will usually take modules worth 120 credits in each year of study, i.e. 60 credits in each semester. First-year students normally take six modules (three in each of the two semesters making up the academic year). In second year Science students normally take four modules and Arts students six.
At the beginning of each year, you will receive guidance from an Adviser of Studies before finally enrolling for any module or group of modules.
Some modules do have prerequisites or entry requirements. These can either be qualifications you need to have achieved before coming to university, or other modules offered at St Andrews.
Modules are generally available at three different levels:
| Level | Credit description |
|---|---|
| First level | (1000 level) worth 20 credits each |
| Second level | (2000 level) usually worth 20 or 30 credits each |
| Honours level | (3000 & 4000 level) worth between 10 and 60 credits each |
Course Catalogue
Along with full information on each of the modules that is available for study the Course Catalogue also contains all the module requirements for each degree programme.
Notes:
- The Scottish Credit Accumulation Transfer Scheme (ScotCATS) allows you to earn credit as you go through your degree programme and add to it at a later date. If you need to take a break from studying ScotCATS allows you to take your credit with you and to bring it back again when you return to study, within a fixed length of time, even if you are returning to a different institution.
- The European Credit Transfer Accumulation System (ECTS). All modules in the Course Catalogue have an accreditation in the ECTS. Since St Andrews operates on an annual load of 120 credits and ECTS one of 60 credits, credits transferred to the other institution will be exactly half of the credits shown for each module. The grade for each module will be calculated according to established ECTS procedures and, therefore, it will not necessarily be the same as a grade for the module awarded by the University.